2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 202 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
